Eclipse 500 static testing completed

The Eclipse 500 very light jet has completed the airframe static testing required for its FAA certification.

The FAA cleared the Eclipse for an initial 10,000 hour lifetime, significantly more than is typically approved so early. Static testing, which tests airframe loads to the designed maximum and, in some instances, to failure, was conducted throughout the airframe, including the wings and flight control systems.

“All tests were completed successfully without failure, eliminating the need for any redesign or retesting,” company officials said.